WAVES 2025: Global Experts Reimagine the Future of Radio in the Digital Age

New Delhi: At the forefront of media transformation, a high-profile panel discussion titled ‘Radio Reimagined: Thriving in the Digital Age’ convened today at WAVES 2025, drawing influential voices from across the global broadcasting landscape. The session delved into how radio can evolve and thrive amidst rapid digital disruption.

Moderated by Nisha Narayanan, Director & COO of Red FM, the session featured an impressive lineup: Jacqueline Bierhorst, pioneer of commercial radio; Ruxandra Obreja, Chairman of Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM); Alexander Zink, DRM Vice Group Leader; Ted Laverty, international broadcast technology expert; and Shashi Shekhar Vempati, former CEO of Prasar Bharati and Co-Founder of Deep Tech for Bharat.

Digital is the Future, but Analog Must Endure

While the panel strongly endorsed digital radio as the future, it also emphasized the enduring relevance of analog broadcasting. Jacqueline Bierhorst and Alexander Zink stressed that in times of emergencies—such as floods or terrorist attacks—analog broadcasts offer unmatched reliability. Ruxandra Obreja echoed this sentiment, urging preservation of analog networks, particularly in rural India where digital reach remains limited. “The challenge is to bring in new technologies without disrupting the old ones,” she noted.

Redefining the 5Cs of Radio

Bierhorst proposed an evolved framework for digital radio, shifting from the classic 5Cs (Conciseness, Clarity, Confidence, Control, Capability) to the modern-day Coverage, Content, Consumer Devices, Car, and Communication—emphasizing broad network reach and accessibility across platforms.

Measuring and Maximizing Listenership

Ted Laverty highlighted the importance of listener metrics to enhance radio’s growth. He pointed to European apps like Radioplayer and Radio FM, which measure user engagement without compromising privacy. Adopting similar tools in India could help identify and expand radio “hotspots.”

‘Content is King’: Diversification, Innovation, and Collaboration

The panel agreed that quality content remains central to radio’s success. Narayanan highlighted challenges private FMs face, such as high license fees that restrict diverse programming. Experts called for policy reforms and cross-platform collaborations to boost content innovation. Bierhorst cited the example of Absolute Radio in the UK, which successfully combined entertainment with educational outreach.

Zink added that digital radio can go beyond audio, integrating text and visuals to enhance listener engagement. Laverty emphasized the need for low-cost devices and broader ecosystem support, including affordable access through mobile phones and cars.

Energy Efficiency and Climate Consciousness

Digital radio’s potential for energy efficiency was also spotlighted, but experts warned against a hasty FM shutdown. Obreja argued for a balanced hybrid model, noting that even European countries have struggled with total FM switch-offs. Policy discussions should consider the economic and operational needs of commercial stations, she said.

Strengthening India’s Radio Ecosystem

India emerged as a key player in global radio innovation. Obreja called India a “golden goose” for digital radio, pointing to the country’s massive mobile user base and Prasar Bharati’s 90 crore reach. She advocated the formation of a Digital Radio Consortium in India to synchronize industry and government efforts.

Vempati echoed this view, calling radio an original public good and stressing the need for coordinated public policy to secure its future. He suggested mandating radio functionality in certain device categories and enabling AI-powered and traditional radios to coexist.

Call to Action: Collaborate and Innovate

The experts concluded with a shared vision for a thriving digital radio ecosystem—urging for Common Transmission Infrastructure, local manufacturing incentives under ‘Make in India’, and robust public-private partnerships. As India stands at the cusp of a broadcasting renaissance, the panel called on stakeholders to future-proof radio while safeguarding its democratic and inclusive legacy.